The secret is out. Backpacking In Southern California offers a stunning variety of landscapes, from coastal trails with ocean views to rugged mountain peaks touching the sky. While many people stick to day hikes, the truly rewarding experiences often come from spending a night under the stars, immersing yourself in the tranquility and beauty of the wilderness. It’s a step up in adventure that’s more accessible than you might think.
Southern California provides numerous incredible opportunities for first-time backpackers and seasoned pros alike. You can find trips suitable for testing new gear, building endurance, or simply escaping the city for a night. These ten destinations are some of the top picks, offering diverse scenery and memorable challenges, making them perfect for exploring the rich outdoor tapestry of the region.
Crystal Cove State Park Backpacking
Many are surprised to learn that Crystal Cove State Park near Laguna Beach features multiple backcountry campsites. These sites boast incredible, sweeping ocean views, making them a highly sought-after spot. During the day, the trails are popular with hikers and mountain bikers, but come evening, the crowds dissipate, leaving you to enjoy the sunset and the sounds of the waves in relative solitude.
This trip is fantastic for testing new backpacking gear close to home. As my friend Tracy often does, it’s a low-risk way to ensure everything works before tackling longer, more remote excursions. You can hike up, set up camp, cook dinner, and still have ample time to soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery as daylight fades.
Santa Cruz Trail Overnight Hike
Located in the Santa Barbara backcountry, the Santa Cruz Trail offers a more challenging out-and-back backpacking trip. This strenuous 10-mile hike involves a significant 2,500 feet of vertical gain on the way in. It’s best tackled in the spring when temperatures are moderate, as the summer heat can be intense.
Spring wildflowers blanket the Santa Barbara backcountry landscape
Setting up camp by a stream under the shade of ancient oak trees provides a peaceful overnight rest before the return hike. The distance and elevation gain here closely mimic a typical day on famous long-distance trails like the John Muir Trail, making it an excellent barometer for testing your physical readiness and pack weight for bigger adventures. Timing your visit for spring rewards you with spectacular wildflower displays along the trail.
Barker Valley in Palomar Mountains
Hiking blogger Scott Turner highlights a fantastic overnight trip to Barker Valley in the Palomar Mountains, situated in northeast San Diego County. This route is an “upside-down” hike, meaning you descend about 1,000 feet to reach the valley floor, camp overnight by the river, and then face the climb back up the next day.
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At approximately 6.5 miles round trip, it offers a gentler introduction to backpacking compared to some other strenuous options. The destination itself features lovely meadows, a flowing river, and even a waterfall, providing beautiful scenery to enjoy during your stay. Plus, it’s known for being dog-friendly, so your furry companion can join the adventure.
Santa Anita Canyon History and Trails
Santa Anita Canyon provides accessible overnight backpacking options near urban centers. You have choices for campsites, such as Hogee’s on Winter Creek or Spruce Grove along the Gabrieleño Trail. These locations offer a surprising escape into nature just a short drive from sprawling developments.
For those feeling ambitious, the proximity allows you to aim for bagging Mount Wilson, one of the peaks included in the challenging Six-Pack of Peaks series, the morning after camping. A popular option is a grand loop via the Gabrieleño Trail to the summit and descending through Winter Creek.
I personally appreciate this overnighter for its rich connection to Los Angeles‘ hiking history. Campgrounds like Hoagie’s and Spruce Grove have roots stretching back a hundred years, reflecting the area’s long tradition of outdoor recreation. These lush canyons truly feel like a world away from the busy freeways and traffic of the nearby city.
A hiker ascends a trail, looking out over a scenic canyon vista
Cucamonga Peak Camping Adventure
Joan and I embarked on an overnight backpacking trip to Cucamonga Peak as part of our Six-Pack of Peaks Challenge journey. Setting up camp near the summit provides an unparalleled experience, although it requires packing in all your water due to the lack of sources at higher elevations. I carried six liters for this trip.
The payoff for this effort is the breathtaking views. Hiking this peak for an overnight stay is all about the sunset, the sunrise, and the incredible display of stars and city lights that blankets the landscape in between. We even managed to see the Disneyland fireworks from the summit, a unique urban juxtaposition to the wilderness experience. It’s also a dog-friendly trail, so your canine friend can enjoy the high-altitude views with you.
Mount Baldy Summit Overnight
Camping on the very top of Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is a truly unique and challenging experience. Like Cucamonga Peak, it necessitates packing in all your water, as sources are non-existent at the exposed summit. The conditions can be harsh – cold, windy, and completely exposed to the elements.
A full moon rises above a mountain landscape at sunset from Mount Baldy
Despite the difficulty, the rewards are immense. The sunrises and sunsets from the summit are absolutely spectacular, painting the sky with dramatic colors. Watching the world wake up or settle down from this vantage point makes the effort worthwhile. It’s a demanding trip but offers a sense of accomplishment and incredible views. Plus, Mount Baldy is also a dog-friendly destination.
San Bernardino Peak Views
The San Bernardino Trail is a gateway to exploring the San Bernardino Mountains. While the trail continues all the way up to San Bernardino Peak and beyond, a popular option for an overnight backpacking trip is to stop at Limber Pine Flat and set up camp there.
This campsite provides a convenient stopping point along the ascent, breaking up the climb to the summit. The primary reason to backpack to Limber Pine Flat is undoubtedly the views it offers. From this location, you are treated to expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Looking out from a mountain ridge towards distant peaks under a cloudy sky
The scenery from Limber Pine Flat truly speaks for itself, providing a powerful connection to the vastness of the Southern California landscape and making the backpacking effort well worth it for the visual reward alone.
Catalina Island Coastal Trek
You don’t have to commit to hiking the entire Trans-Catalina Trail to enjoy an overnight backpacking experience on Santa Catalina Island. A great option is to take the ferry from San Pedro over to the village of Two Harbors, located on the island’s west end. From Two Harbors, you can embark on shorter day hikes to designated campgrounds.
Two popular options are hiking to Little Harbor or to Parsons Landing. Little Harbor is situated on the south side of the island with campsites right by the beach. Parsons Landing is on the north side, offering a more secluded cove feel. Each offers a distinct coastal backpacking vibe and requires reservations well in advance.
Tents are set up at Parsons Landing campground near the beach
For anyone living in Southern California, backpacking on Catalina Island is an absolute must-do experience. It provides a unique opportunity to combine hiking with a beautiful island setting, offering stunning ocean views, the chance to see bison, and the feeling of being much further from civilization than you actually are.
San Gorgonio Summit Overnight
San Gorgonio is the highest peak in Southern California, and while many tackle it as a challenging day hike via routes like Vivian Creek, spending the night offers a completely different, arguably more rewarding, experience. Extending your journey allows you to witness incredible views that day hikers often miss.
A tent is pitched at High Creek campsite with sunset light hitting distant mountains
Campsites along the trail, such as High Creek or Halfway Camp (located roughly midway to the summit from the Vivian Creek trailhead), provide perfect spots to break up the ascent. The view from my High Creek campsite in 2013, pictured above, illustrates the magic of being high on the mountain for sunset. While you could stop at camp, having already made the significant effort to backpack in, many choose to continue to the summit the next morning. Backpacking San Gorgonio is about fully embracing the journey to the top of Southern California’s tallest mountain.
San Jacinto State Park Gem
Mount San Jacinto holds a special place in my heart; it is, without question, my personal favorite backpacking destination in Southern California. I’ve been exploring its trails and peaks since I was a teenager and its beauty never ceases to amaze me. There are multiple ways to access the trails for an overnight trip, including hiking in from Idyllwild or taking the convenient Palm Springs Aerial Tramway up to Mountain Station.
The versatility of San Jacinto is one reason I love it so much. You can aim to summit Mount San Jacinto itself, or simply hike to scenic points like Wellman’s Divide for incredible views without the full summit push. The mountain features beautiful alpine meadows and granite peaks that strongly remind me of the majestic Sierra Nevada range, offering a slice of high-mountain wilderness surprisingly close to Palm Springs.
Looking out over Round Valley campsite surrounded by pine trees
I even took my daughter on her first overnight backpack trip here before she was old enough to walk, carrying her in a pack. Sharing these experiences in such a stunning environment is truly special. Our trip from the Tram to the summit offers a look at one possible itinerary, showcasing the breathtaking views and varied terrain you can expect. San Jacinto offers a perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and accessibility for incredible Backpacking In Southern California.
Essential Tips for Backpacking In Southern California
Embarking on a backpacking trip in Southern California requires planning beyond just picking a trail. Permits are often mandatory for overnight stays in wilderness areas and state parks, including most of the locations listed above. Obtaining these permits usually involves contacting the local ranger station or park office well in advance, as quotas can apply, especially for popular areas.
Understanding water sources is crucial. In many Southern California mountains, water can be scarce or seasonal, meaning you may need to carry all your water or rely on filtering/treating water from streams if available. Checking current conditions before you go is essential.
Weather in Southern California mountains can change rapidly, even in the warmer months. Be prepared for temperature swings between day and night, potential wind exposure on ridges and summits, and sudden rain or thunderstorms. Packing layers is always a good strategy.
Finally, practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on designated trails, properly manage human waste, and minimize campfire impacts. Preserving the beauty of these places ensures they remain accessible and enjoyable for future generations of backpackers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Backpacking In Southern California
Do I need a permit for backpacking in Southern California?
Yes, most overnight backpacking trips in Southern California, especially in wilderness areas, national forests, and state parks like those listed, require a wilderness permit. It’s crucial to check with the specific park or forest service managing the area beforehand and obtain your permit well in advance, as quotas may apply.
When is the best time of year for backpacking in Southern California?
Spring and Fall are generally considered the best times for Backpacking In Southern California due to milder temperatures. Summer can be very hot at lower elevations and challenging on exposed mountain routes. Winter can bring snow and ice to higher peaks, requiring different gear and expertise, but can also offer unique cold-weather experiences.
How difficult are these Southern California backpacking trips?
The difficulty varies greatly. Trips like Crystal Cove offer relatively gentle introductions, while summits like San Gorgonio and Mt Baldy are strenuous and require significant physical fitness and preparedness. The list includes a range of difficulties, allowing you to choose based on your experience level.
Are campfires allowed on backpacking trips?
Campfire regulations vary depending on the location and current fire danger levels. Often, campfires are restricted to designated rings in established campgrounds, and sometimes open fires are banned entirely. Always check current fire restrictions with the managing agency before your trip.
What wildlife might I encounter while backpacking in SoCal?
Southern California is home to various wildlife, including deer, coyotes, rabbits, various bird species, and potentially black bears (especially in the San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains). Mountain lions are present but rarely seen. Practicing proper food storage (like using bear canisters or hanging food) is important in bear country.
Wrapping Up Your Southern California Backpacking Journey
Southern California offers a wealth of opportunities for overnight backpacking, providing stunning scenery, physical challenge, and a deep connection with nature just a short distance from millions of people. From the unique coastal camps of Catalina to the demanding heights of San Gorgonio and the beloved trails of San Jacinto, there’s an adventure waiting for every level of backpacker.
These ten trips represent just a fraction of what’s available, serving as excellent starting points or additions to your backpacking itinerary. Each location provides a chance to escape the routine, challenge yourself, and witness the incredible beauty that Southern California’s diverse landscapes have to offer. If you’re looking to dive into the world of backpacking, or seeking new destinations in the region, these spots are highly recommended.